2 Corinthians 6 9

2 Corinthians 6:9 kjv

As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;

2 Corinthians 6:9 nkjv

as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed;

2 Corinthians 6:9 niv

known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed;

2 Corinthians 6:9 esv

as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold, we live; as punished, and yet not killed;

2 Corinthians 6:9 nlt

We are ignored, even though we are well known. We live close to death, but we are still alive. We have been beaten, but we have not been killed.

2 Corinthians 6 verses

2 Corinthians 6 9 Meaning

This verse speaks to a paradox of the Christian life: while believers may experience suffering, rejection, and hardship, they simultaneously possess spiritual abundance, influence, and resilience. It highlights that outward circumstances do not always reflect true spiritual reality. Despite being considered "dying" or "as dying" in the eyes of the world, believers are spiritually alive and continually renewed. They are not merely surviving but thriving in a spiritual sense, holding onto life in Christ even when facing death. This speaks to a strength that transcends physical or worldly perceptions.

2 Corinthians 6 9 Context

Second Corinthians 6:3-10 forms a pivotal section where Paul defends his apostolic ministry against detractors. He presents himself and his co-workers not as failures but as faithful servants of God. In this passage, Paul employs a series of contrasting statements ("though suffering, yet blessed; though rejected, yet honored") to illustrate the paradoxical nature of true ministry and Christian experience. This particular verse emerges in the midst of these declarations, describing the ministry's perceived weakness and hardship from the world's perspective, while affirming the underlying reality of God's sustained power and life. The broader context is Paul's urgent appeal to the Corinthians for reconciliation with him and with God (2 Cor 5:20).

2 Corinthians 6 9 Word Analysis

• Ὡς (hōs): A common Greek particle meaning "as," "like," or "how." Here, it introduces comparisons or comparisons of manner. It is used to liken one state or condition to another.
• ἀποθνῄσκοντες (apothnēskontes): Present active participle of ἀποθνῄσκω (apothnēskō), meaning "to die" or "dying." In this context, it emphasizes a continuous process of dying or being put to death. It reflects the ongoing hardship and risks faced in ministry.
• καὶ ἰδοὺ (kai idou): Literally "and behold." This is an emphatic particle used to draw attention to something surprising or significant. It signals a turn or a realization that counters the previous description.
• ζῶντες (zōntes): Present active participle of ζάω (zaō), meaning "living" or "alive." This stands in direct contrast to "dying," highlighting the enduring life found in Christ, irrespective of physical suffering or deathly circumstances.
• ὡς (hōs): Repeated to emphasize the parallel structure and contrast.
• παιδευόμενοι (paideuomenoi): Present passive participle of παιδεύω (paideuō), meaning "to educate," "discipline," "chastise," or "punish." In a suffering context, it signifies being disciplined or corrected through hardship. It can also refer to being chastened or instructed through suffering, much like a child learns.
• οὐκ (ouk): A negative particle meaning "not."
• θανατούμενοι (thanatoumenoi): Present passive participle of θανατόω (thanatoō), meaning "to kill," "put to death," or "condemn to death." This reinforces the severity of the afflictions faced, describing a state of being constantly subjected to death.

Words-group by words-group analysis

• "As dying, and behold, we are alive" (Ὡς ἀποθνῄσκοντες καὶ ἰδοὺ ζῶντες): This is the core paradox. It presents a severe external reality (facing death) and an undeniable internal spiritual reality (living). The "behold" (ἰδοὺ) highlights the astonishing nature of this transformation. It's not just about surviving, but a dynamic, ongoing life imparted by God. This captures the essence of spiritual vitality despite dire circumstances. It suggests life not merely of the body but of the spirit, a resurrected life experienced now.
• "As punished, yet not killed" (ὡς παιδευόμενοι οὐκ θανατούμενοι): This clause further refines the paradox. The "punishment" (παιδευόμενοι) signifies the suffering and discipline experienced, which might be perceived as judgment or nearing death. However, the emphatic "not killed" (οὐκ θανατούμενοι) clarifies that while they endure severe trials that could be interpreted as a death sentence, the ultimate finality of death (and thus defeat) does not befall them. God's sustaining power prevents this. It speaks to the protective hand of God in the midst of severe trial.

2 Corinthians 6 9 Bonus Section

This verse powerfully illustrates the theme of dying to self and living for Christ, a core concept in Pauline theology (cf. 2 Cor 5:14-15; Gal 2:20). The suffering and perceived "dying" is the crucible through which self is put to death, making way for Christ to live more fully in and through them. The "punishment" (παιδευόμενοι) can also be understood in the sense of paideia – God's righteous and loving discipline that molds believers into Christ's likeness. This is not punitive condemnation, but a fatherly process to conform them to His will. The constant state of "dying" for ministry prepares them to share in the sufferings of Christ, as Paul speaks of elsewhere (Phil 3:10), which in turn brings a deeper experience of His resurrection power and life. This is a spiritual dialectic, essential for understanding the transformative power of God in the life of a believer, especially those engaged in His service.

2 Corinthians 6 9 Commentary

Paul and his companions are caught in a profound paradox common to the apostolic ministry and the Christian life. To the outside world, they appear to be "dying"—facing constant threats, persecution, and hardship that could lead to death. They are also seen as "disciplined" or "chastened" (παιδευόμενοι), perhaps implying that their suffering is a sign of God's displeasure or their own failing. However, the reality from a spiritual perspective is diametrically opposed. "Behold, we are alive" signifies a vibrant spiritual life sustained by God's power. They are not merely surviving; they are truly living in Christ, empowered by the Spirit. The further clarification, "as punished, yet not killed," reinforces this. While experiencing the severe impact of trials, which could easily lead to annihilation, God's preserving grace ensures they are not ultimately destroyed. This isn't a denial of suffering but a declaration that suffering does not have the final word. It points to God's power to sustain and revitalize His servants through the midst of affliction, demonstrating that spiritual life is not determined by external circumstances but by God's enduring power and grace. It mirrors the resurrection hope – facing death but ultimately overcoming it through Christ.

Practical usage:

• When facing severe criticism or opposition in serving God, remember that your true life is hidden with Christ and your spiritual vitality is not extinguished by external rejection.
• If you feel disciplined by God through hardships, trust that this is for your refinement, not your final destruction. God preserves His people through the trials of life.
• In times of deep sorrow or apparent defeat, recall the resurrected life within and believe that God can bring forth life from situations that appear dead.